EU celebrates Europe Day in Kuwait, highlights deepening ties with the Gulf states
Kuwaiti citizens are now eligible for multiple-entry Schengen visas valid for up to five years -- Koistinen
On the occasion of Europe Day, the Head of the European Union Delegation to Kuwait, Anne Koistinen, hosted a distinguished reception that brought together diplomats, government officials, business leaders, and members of the Kuwaiti and European communities.
Held in a spirit of unity and shared values, the event celebrated the EU’s commitment to peace, cooperation, and partnership with Kuwait.
In her remarks Koistinen emphasized the importance of deepening ties between the EU and Kuwait across various sectors, including trade, education, and sustainability. The reception reflected the strong and growing relationship between Europe and the Gulf, underscoring mutual aspirations for a more connected and prosperous future.
The European Union Ambassador took this opportunity to announce that Kuwaiti citizens are now eligible for multiple-entry Schengen visas valid for up to five years — a major development she described as a stepping stone toward full visa exemption and visa-free travel to EU member states.
Koistinen emphasized that this visa facilitation reflects the deepening trust and growing cooperation between the European Union and Kuwait. She highlighted the strengthening strategic partnership spanning trade, energy, regional security, and humanitarian collaboration.
Kuwait’s Assistant Foreign Minister for European Affairs, Ambassador Sadiq Marafi, affirmed the deepening partnership between Kuwait and the European Union, highlighting growing cooperation in political, security, cultural, and humanitarian areas.
Meanwhile, looking ahead, Koistinen noted that Kuwait is set to host two major events later this year: the 29th EU-GCC Ministerial Meeting and the 9th EU-Gulf Business Forum. These gatherings, she said, underscore the maturity and depth of EU-Kuwait ties.
She also pointed to upcoming diplomatic milestones, including the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Kuwait and the EU in 2026, which will follow Kuwait’s designation as the Arab Capital of Culture in 2025 — a moment that will further enrich cultural exchange.
On regional and global issues, Koistinen reaffirmed the EU’s political stance, particularly regarding Gaza and Ukraine. She called for the restoration of a ceasefire in Gaza, the lifting of the blockade, and the unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid. She also reiterated the EU’s commitment to a two-state solution and its readiness to work with Gulf and Arab partners to achieve lasting peace.
Regarding Ukraine, Koistinen praised Kuwait’s principled support for the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, aligning with the EU’s vision for peace based on the UN Charter.
The ambassador also commended Kuwait’s humanitarian contributions and close cooperation with the EU in global relief efforts.
She referenced the recent visit of the Director-General of the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Office to Kuwait, aimed at strengthening joint humanitarian operations.
Koistinen extended her gratitude to Kuwait’s leadership — His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Crown Prince, the Prime Minister, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs — for their consistent support in fostering EU-Kuwait ties.
She also thanked event sponsors IKEA, Dar Al-Mahama Law Firm, and Hussein Al-Huraiti & Partners for supporting the Europe Day celebrations, part of the wider Europe Month in Kuwait.
